The Miss Universe Organization has addressed an incident that unfolded during a recent pre-pageant event in Thailand, where an executive’s comments toward a contestant drew widespread criticism and sparked online debate. The exchange, which was captured during a live-streamed speech, prompted several contestants to express concern and led to a public apology from the official involved.
As preparations for the next Miss Universe competition continue, the controversy has raised important questions about respect, professionalism, and the treatment of participants within international pageants.
The Lead-Up to the Incident
The Miss Universe pageant, scheduled to take place later this month, has been holding various pre-event activities and media engagements in Thailand, the host nation. These events, including workshops, rehearsals, and cultural promotions, are designed to showcase both the contestants’ personalities and the host country’s culture.
During one such event, Nawat Itsaragrisil, a pageant executive associated with the Miss Universe organization, delivered a speech to contestants. The session was broadcast live on the official Miss Universe Facebook page, allowing fans around the world to watch in real time.
However, the tone of the session shifted when Itsaragrisil addressed Miss Mexico, Fátima Bosch, over her reported absence from a scheduled promotional photoshoot intended to highlight Thailand’s tourism and culture. The photoshoot was part of the contestants’ social media promotional duties during the lead-up to the final competition.
What Happened During the Exchange
According to footage shared from the event, Itsaragrisil questioned Bosch about her decision not to participate in the Thailand-themed shoot. He alleged that her absence may have been influenced by her national pageant director, though this claim has not been independently confirmed.
When Bosch attempted to clarify her position, the conversation became tense. Itsaragrisil continued to question her commitment to promoting Thailand, asking whether she intended to post about the host nation on her social media channels. At one point, he reportedly made a remark that many interpreted as disrespectful, which caused visible discomfort among some of the contestants present.
Despite the tense atmosphere, Bosch maintained her composure and attempted to respond. In the video, she stated that she wanted to express her perspective and that she felt her voice was not being respected during the exchange. The conversation briefly escalated before event staff intervened to de-escalate the situation.
Several contestants reportedly stood in solidarity with Bosch during the exchange. Among them were Miss Bonaire and Victoria Kjær Theilvig, the reigning Miss Universe titleholder, who appeared to leave the room alongside Bosch in protest of how the situation unfolded.
Contestant Support and Calls for Calm
Following the incident, footage from the livestream shows other contestants appealing for calm and suggesting that Bosch be invited back into the room. Miss Bonaire was heard urging the pageant organizers to resolve the issue respectfully, highlighting the positive experience many contestants had been enjoying during their time in Thailand.
“We can fix this,” she said in a calm tone, according to clips shared online. “We’re having such a great time in Thailand. Let’s bring her back and move forward together.”
Observers have noted that her words reflected the collaborative spirit the Miss Universe competition has long promoted—one centered on unity, empowerment, and mutual respect among contestants from diverse backgrounds.
Public Reaction and Online Response
The exchange quickly circulated online, prompting strong reactions from fans and commentators across social media platforms. Many users expressed disappointment, arguing that all contestants deserve to be treated with courtesy and professionalism. Others commended Bosch for standing her ground and speaking up respectfully.
Within hours of the event, hashtags related to Miss Mexico and Miss Universe Thailand began trending on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, as pageant fans debated the situation and shared clips from the livestream.
Several former Miss Universe contestants and national pageant directors also weighed in, calling for respectful communication and reminding followers that cultural misunderstandings can sometimes arise in global competitions.
Official Apology from Nawat Itsaragrisil
In response to the growing online backlash, Nawat Itsaragrisil issued a public apology through social media. In a video posted on his official account, he expressed regret over how his comments were perceived and stated that he had apologized directly to the contestants in the room after the incident.
“If anyone felt uncomfortable or affected, I sincerely apologize,” he said. “It was never my intention to offend or disrespect anyone.”
The Miss Universe Organization has not released an official statement specifically about the incident, but representatives emphasized that the organization continues to uphold values of respect, inclusivity, and empowerment—principles that have guided the competition for more than seven decades.
A Legacy of Empowerment and Cultural Exchange
The Miss Universe competition has long positioned itself as a global platform celebrating diversity, leadership, and women’s empowerment. Beyond beauty and stage presence, contestants are encouraged to use their influence to advocate for social causes, promote global awareness, and represent their countries with pride.
Incidents such as this one highlight the complexities of managing a multinational event involving contestants from over 80 countries, each bringing distinct cultural norms, communication styles, and expectations. Experts note that maintaining respectful dialogue across cultures is a vital aspect of international pageantry and diplomacy.
While tensions can occasionally arise, the broader Miss Universe community has often responded by reinforcing its commitment to learning, understanding, and growing together.
Moving Forward: Lessons for Global Pageants
As the Miss Universe finals approach, many observers believe this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, communication, and professionalism within high-pressure international events.
Contestants, organizers, and audiences alike are calling for an atmosphere that encourages constructive dialogue rather than confrontation. Pageant analysts suggest that the Miss Universe Organization may review internal communication protocols and cultural training sessions to prevent similar misunderstandings in the future.
The conversation also sheds light on the challenges modern beauty pageants face in balancing entertainment value with social responsibility. Over the years, the Miss Universe platform has increasingly focused on social advocacy, encouraging contestants to address issues such as gender equality, climate action, education, and mental health awareness.
Miss Universe 2025: What’s Next
Despite the controversy, preparations for the upcoming Miss Universe 2025 event in Thailand continue as scheduled. Contestants have resumed their activities, including rehearsals, charity visits, and national costume fittings.
Organizers have expressed confidence that the event will remain a positive and celebratory occasion. Supporters of the pageant emphasize that while misunderstandings may occur, they can also serve as opportunities for reflection and growth.
As the competition approaches, global audiences are expected to tune in to watch contestants from across the world share their stories, showcase their cultures, and compete for one of the most prestigious titles in international pageantry.
Conclusion
The Miss Universe Organization’s swift response and public apology underscore a renewed commitment to upholding the values of respect and inclusivity. The incident involving Nawat Itsaragrisil and Miss Mexico Fátima Bosch may have sparked tension, but it also opened an important dialogue about respectful communication, cultural awareness, and the evolving nature of global pageantry.
As the Miss Universe finals draw near, both the organization and its contestants have an opportunity to demonstrate resilience and grace under scrutiny—qualities that have defined the competition for decades.